Hiking Equipment for Beginners

If you’ve been viewing my Instagram over the last year you may have noticed I have got really into hiking!  Moving back to South Yorkshire during the pandemic I discovered just how close I live to the Peak District (I seriously never realised!) and what started out as some longer walks in South Yorkshire has quickly changed to planning full hikes whenever I can fit them in.  I’m slowly increasing my stamina and pushing myself for increased height and distance and I really enjoy it.   I’ve done hikes in Derbyshire, Yorkshire and the Lake District and it’s something I’m really missing now I’m back in London (if you know of anywhere near London for good hikes do let me know in the comments below!).  One thing I have noticed is that the amount of equipment people will tell you that you need when you start hiking can be really off-putting, and I really don’t believe you need to invest much money to get into hiking.  Here is my honest breakdown of hiking equipment for beginners, I’m sure you will find most of it is things you already have!

Waterproof Backpack

The joys of hiking in the UK means that keeping yourself and your belongings dry is essential as you never know when you’ll get caught in a shower, no matter what season you are hiking in.  A waterproof backpack is essential for keeping everything out of the rain.

Water bottle

You don’t need anything fancy but a water bottle is a must, you never know how many hours trek you may need to go before you can grab your next drink and if you are hiking up a mountain you’d be surprised at just how much hotter it can get up there.  There are loads of different brands at different price points but as long as it doesn’t leak just grab the one that you like and throw it in your bag.

Snacks

Chances are you’re going to be far from anywhere selling food and you’ll be burning lots of energy during the hike so snacks that don’t take up much space, but are filling and energy-packed are great a great choice.  I also love anything that can be eaten with one hand on the go.  I’m personally a big fan of malt loaf, dried fruit, nuts, flapjacks and maybe some cold pasta salad for something more filling.

Shoes

People will always tell you that the ‘right’ footwear is the most important thing about hiking comfortable and while they aren’t wrong many people will instantly take ‘correct’ footwear to mean the most expensive.  The truth is if you are starting off with smaller, flat hikes your most comfortable trainers are most likely fine. If you want to invest in some hiking boots the range (and prices) can be rather intimidating but anything with good padding and protection, that fit well (it’s usually a good idea to pick some with a bit of space to accommodate hiking socks and swelling feet) and waterproof are great.  I got these pink hiking boots for under £40 and they’ve done well for me on the multiple hikes I’ve worn them on, keeping my feet warm, dry and protected from the elements.

Socks

Personally, I would argue that good socks are actually more important than good shoes.  If you are starting out getting a pair of hiking socks and using existing comfortable shoes wouldn’t be a bad move.  It’s best to spend a bit more money on an anti-blister pair that will last you years and you’ll find you’ll be able to hike comfortably for so much longer.  If you can stretch to it, an extra pair for your backpack is great for longer hikes, you can swap your socks mid-hike and your feet will feel really refreshed!  Good foot care is key to upping your hike game!

Waterproof jacket

Back again with the waterproofs…I think it’s clear by now why these are needed.  A lightweight waterproof jacket that can be folded small into your backpack will soon become your best friend!

Warm hoodie or jacket

Temperatures change quickly especially on a full day hike, your body temperature can feel high as you are en route but as soon as you stop to take a break or the sun goes behind a cloud you will be surprised at how quickly it gets cool.  Something warm but easy to carry will be a godsend in times of need.

Comfy clothes

You will find a lot of people getting designer hiking gear, name brand waterproofs and expensive hiking shoes, however, the truth is as long as you are wearing is comfortable and breathable that’s all you need.  I’ve hiked in cotton shorts and vest tops on hot days and tracksuit bottoms and jumpers on cold days.  I’ve even hikes in a stretchy mini skort!  Don’t let people pressure you into the ‘right’ way.  As long as you are comfortable that’s all that matters.

A phone, external charger and all the apps!

There is a multitude of hiking apps that people sware by for walks, with All Trials and Hiking project being a lot of peoples favourites.  Personally, I’m a big fan of the Peak District Walks website for when I am hiking in that area as I find their walking instructions really easy to follow (I tend to screenshot the walking instructions so I can still access them when I am out of service range).  Either way with that, Google Maps and What Three Words (an app that means people can find you no matter where in the world you are in case of emergency) as the minimum essentials to have on your phone you will also need a good phone charger.  I love a thin battery bank that has at least four full charges, you can pick these up pretty cheaply online these days and they are essential, especially in case of emergency.

Those are my suggestions for hiking equipment for beginners but truly the most important thing is to get out there and give it a go.  You don’t need to invest a great deal to get started and when you get out there and start taking in the views and exploring it really is one of the best feelings you can get.  Let me know if you start hiking, check out these hiking quotes for some inspiration and where your favourite places to explore are!